When Jesus was about to suffer and die, he told his followers they would also experience great difficulties (see Matthew 24:9). He emphasized the importance of endurance: “The one who perseveres to the end will be saved” (Matthew 24:13). Many New Testament writings were for Christians suffering for their faith in Christ (see, for example, 2 Thessalonians 1:4; 1 Peter 4:12–19). These Christians needed encouragement to persevere through difficulty while remaining committed to Christ and sharing their faith with others (see 2 Timothy 4:5; 1 Peter 4:1). Through endurance, Christians grow in character and develop spiritual maturity (Romans 5:3–4; James 1:2–4).
The book of Hebrews spoke to Christians who had encountered many challenges. People harassed them, took their property, and imprisoned them (Hebrews 10:32–34).
At the time of writing, they had similar issues. They needed to "hold firmly" to their beliefs without wavering (4:14; 10:23). They must endure while waiting for God's promises to come true (6:12; 10:36). Like runners in a race, they needed to "run with endurance the race set out for" them (12:1). As true children of a loving father, they were to accept the Lord's discipline to grow in holiness (12:5–13).
The great examples of endurance in Scripture, such as Job and the prophets, can inspire all Christians (Hebrews 11:35–40; James 5:10–11). Christ, our main model of endurance, "endured the cross," because of "the joy set before Him" (12:1–3). This same hope for the future inspires us to endure.
Passages for Further Study
Romans 5:3–4; 1 Corinthians 4:12; 2 Thessalonians 1:4; Hebrews 6:12; Hebrews 12:1–10; James 1:2–4; James 5:11; 1 Peter 2:20